Finding out that you are pregnant is one of the biggest things a couple can experience. Whether it is planned or not, there are a lot of big decisions to make. It is a time of excitement that should be embraced. You get the chance to share with others the excitement that you are feeling. This is also an important time for your baby. They are developing at a very rapid rate. Their tiny hearts are beating, their brains are forming, and their body is taking a human shape. During this time, your doctor will recommend first trimester scans to help you prepare for the future.
Why Have Scans During the First Trimester?
Scans allow you to get a glimpse of your future and the future of your baby. During the first trimester, or between 11-14 weeks, your baby will be developed enough to find out if they may have chromosomal disorders or Downs Syndrome. It can also help you see structural anomalies or find out whether you may be at risk for pre-eclampsia.
This initial screening is done using blood from your arm. It is perhaps the most important screening that you will have during your pregnancy because of its ability to detect placental DNA or Down Syndrome with a 99% accuracy.
Future Screenings
As your pregnancy progresses, you will have other screenings that may indicate other concerns with your baby. You can also find out if you are carrying a boy or a girl if you want to know before delivery. This is completely your decision.
During the third trimester, your doctor will want to take a look at how well the baby has developed. This will allow them to be prepared for any special care that you or your baby may need at the time of delivery.
Give Your Baby a Great Start!
There are standard of care scans that can be done throughout your pregnancy. You should do all that you can to show up for the first trimester scans and the ones that will come later. They allow you to be fully prepared for whatever situation may come your way, which can ensure your baby gets the best start possible. These scans are effective even if abnormalities are detected because there are times when those health concerns can be addressed before or soon after delivery. You simply have to do your part to show up for them.
